#7 Chipola Indians go 2-0 in Gulf Coast State New Years Eve Classic
#7 Indians Move to 15-2 With Wins Over Southern Union and Polk State
Panama City, FL (Dec. 30, 2025) — The Chipola Indians put together a dominant second-half performance to pull away from Southern Union State Community College, earning a convincing 105–90 victory.
Chipola trailed 49–45 at halftime after a competitive opening 20 minutes, but the Indians flipped the switch after the break, erupting for 60 second-half points while tightening up defensively to seize control of the game.
Desmond Kent Jr. delivered a standout performance, pouring in 29 points on an ultra-efficient 11-of-13 shooting, while adding three assists and two steals. His scoring punch set the tone as Chipola steadily built separation in the second half.
The Indians showcased balance throughout the lineup, with DeMarco Middleton contributing 15 points and five rebounds, and Yann Kouakou-Aphely adding 14 points off the bench. Lyrique Sartin also chipped in 14 points and four assists, providing steady production on both ends of the floor.
The Indians finished the game shooting an impressive 55.6% from the field while winning the rebounding battle 50–20, including 19 offensive rebounds that led to numerous second-chance opportunities.
Panama City, FL (Dec. 31, 2025) — The Chipola Indians showed resilience and composure down the stretch, pulling out an 83–78 overtime victory over Polk State College in a hard-fought contest.
Chipola trailed 41–36 at halftime after a physical first half, with Polk State controlling the tempo early. The Indians responded after the break, tightening defensively and finding timely scoring to even the game in the second half. Chipola outscored Polk State 34–29 in the second half to force overtime.
Once in the extra period, the Indians took full control. Chipola outscored Polk State 13–8 in overtime, leaning on toughness, defensive stops, and clutch free-throw shooting to secure the win.
DeMarco Middleton led the way with a team-high 23 points, adding 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals in a complete all-around performance. Hedrens Bartelus recorded a strong double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring the Indians on the glass.
Desmond Kent Jr. contributed 15 points, while Peyton Wiggins knocked down 3 three-pointers on his way to 13 points and 5 assists. Off the bench, Yann Kouakou-Aphely provided a major spark with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 blocks.
The Indians move to 15-2 on the season and will be back in action Monday night at Bishop State, wrapping up the non-conference schedule before heading into panhandle play.